Knowledge Base

Security products have come a long way in recent years, but this decade and into the next seem set for security products to become smarter than ever before – thanks to the latest SMART technology and digital convenience. So what’s upcoming…? AI – Robotics Artificial Intelligence (AI) and robotics are fast becoming part of our homes anyway – from HIVE-type home electronics and utilities management, to Google and Amazon products which many of us have integrated into our homes as…

Having an alarm system is one thing, but an alarm is only as effective as the response to it. In recent years, a survey commissioned by GoCompare showed that up to three quarters of Brits ignore traditional burglar alarms: those alarms which emit the alarm sound as the only alert system. The difference between a monitored alarm and an unmonitored one is that an unmonitored alarm relies on someone being present – either at the property, a passer-by or a…

Most of us know of a neglected, abandoned building in our local area, usually one that’s boarded up and looking distinctly in need of a makeover. But across the world, some of these ‘local’ abandoned properties deserve a closer look, as examples of iconic architecture and ancient civilizations… Machu Picchu – Peru Now a UNESCO world heritage site and one of the acknowledged Seven Wonders of the World, the breath-taking but forsaken buildings of Machu Picchu, high up in the…

Whether for living in, renting out or refurbishing to sell, buying a vacant property, can be a great investment which also benefits local communities, by bringing empty and possibly even neglected properties back into use. It can also be a convenient way to purchase property without getting caught up in exhaustive property chains or waiting around for vendors to move out. With the Telegraph reporting that the number of empty properties in the UK has almost doubled in 20 years,…

Leaving any property vacant can be risky, but if your property’s commercial, then there are additional risk factors to consider. So what are all the risks you need to look out for, and how can you protect your empty commercial property, your investment – and the commercial community? Risk #1: Theft and vandalism Theft from empty properties is a prime reason for break-ins and commercial properties are no exception, particularly as they are seen as a profitable target for metal…

According to the latest figures released by the Office for National Statistics and the police, UK crime is on the rise (The Independent, 2017). This includes a significant rise of 11% in reported crimes of theft – including burglary and vehicle theft. If your property’s empty, it’s sensible to seek out security solutions to ensure your property is less vulnerable whilst it’s vacant. However, out of the 250,000 properties unoccupied in the UK as of October 2016 (Gov.uk), not every…

Your property’s going to be sitting vacant and you’re well aware of the risks involved! So, you’ve closed everything up and secured it against possible intrusion and damage – job done! Or is it? In fact, securing your vacant property adequately is only the first step in protecting it. Any empty premises must be checked regularly and not realising, or acting upon the need for empty property inspections puts both your property and yourself at further risk. The risk of…

Back in 2014, it was estimated that there could be between around 4 and 6 million CCTV cameras in both private and public use across the UK (BSIA CCTV video). Whether installed on private properties, commercial spaces or business premises, these numerous CCTV systems would have been installed with two primary operational uses in mind – to deter and to secure. CCTV facilitates these by: Being a visible presence (and therefore deterrent) on properties; Being available as a monitored service,…

2017’s Notting Hill Carnival takes place over the bank holiday weekend, 26th to 28th August 2017. As the largest street festival in Europe, this annual event has been running for over 50 years, offering a great spectacle and fun experience for London locals and visitors alike. However, if you live locally or own a business in the West London streets and neighbouring areas affected by the carnival, the event can also present a whole procession of problems! Be aware –…

In this third and final post of our series updating you on the risks and rights relating to squatters and your vacant property, the focus is on preventing squatters from getting in. See the first two posts here: Our first post addresses what “squatters rights” are, what adverse possession is and other common questions about squatters. Our second post explores official eviction protocol for legally removing squatters from private and commercial property In all cases, whether the property is commercial…